Lifestyle modification that includes calo­rie reduction and appropriately prescribed physical activity is the "cornerstone in the control of obesity" in type 2 diabetes, say new guidelines released by the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists.

Published in the March/April issue of Endocrine Practice, the guidelines say that there now is "good evidence" that regular physical activity improves glucose control in people with type 2 diabetes. Under Therapeutic Lifestyle Changes, recommendation 22 states: "Patients must be evaluated initially for contra­indications and/or limitations to physical activity, and then an exercise prescription should be developed for each patient according to both their goals and exercise limitations."

In addition, people with prediabetes should modify their life­style by losing weight if overweight or obese and participating in moderate physical activity (eg, walking) at least 150 minutes per week.